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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Guilty as Sin?” by Taylor Swift uses a chord progression in the verse that reflects a more nuanced and reflective approach, suitable for a song with a contemplative or emotive theme. The interplay between minor and major seventh chords creates a lush, complex sound that elevates the song’s introspective and somewhat moody lyrical content.

The chorus of Taylor Swift’s “Anti-Hero” utilizes a chord progression that elevates the song’s emotional resonance, serving as a climactic counterpart to the reflective verses. This section combines lush harmonies with straightforward pop sensibilities, creating a poignant and memorable musical moment that aligns with the song’s thematic exploration of self-awareness and complexity.

“Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls is well-known for its unique tuning and chords which adds a certain tenderness and emotional depth to the song. The song is in D Major and utilizes a repeated chord progression that is relatively simple but effective.

“Something I Can Never Have” by Nine Inch Nails is a song with a dark and moody atmosphere. The chord progression in both the verse and chorus of the song features certain borrowed chords and chromatic tones that give the piece this distinctive quality. The song seems to be in the key of C Major, but certain chords from the parallel minor key (C Minor) are used to create a sense of tension and emotional turmoil.

“Little Red Corvette” by Prince is in the key of Gb Major. The song is a staple of 80’s pop and a good example of Prince’s signature sound of fusing elements from different genres, such as funk, pop, and rock. It’s a strong blend of complex chord progressions and simple, catchy melodic lines which adds a compelling depth to the music.

Taylor Swift – Guilty as Sin? – Chorus

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Chord Progression

Dmaj7, A, Gmaj7, Dmaj7, A, Gmaj7, A, Dmaj7, Gmaj7, A, Bm7

Chord Progression Analysis

The chord progression in the chorus of “Guilty as Sin?” operates primarily in the key of D major and uses the following chords:
“`
D Major 7 (Imaj7),
A Major (V),
G Major 7 (IVmaj7),
B Minor 7 (vim7),
“`

This sequence maintains diatonic integrity, with all chords derived from the native scale of D major, showcasing no borrowed chords.

Similar Chord Progressions

Progressions that mix major, major seventh, and minor chords are common in songs that aim to evoke a rich emotional palette. Here are examples from other artists:

Stevie Wonder – “Isn’t She Lovely”
Progression:
“`
A Major (V),
D Major 7 (Imaj7),
E Minor 7 (iim7)
“`

Corinne Bailey Rae – “Put Your Records On”
Progression:
“`
A Major (IV),
E Major (I),
F#m7 (vim7)
“`

John Mayer – “Gravity”
Progression:
“`
G Major (IV),
C Major 7 (I),
A Minor 7 (vi)
“`

These examples illustrate how similar chord structures are used to underpin lyrical narratives in diverse genres, highlighting their versatility and emotional impact. Taylor Swift’s usage in “Guilty as Sin?” employs this tradition within her unique stylistic narrative, presenting a mature and emotionally engaging sound.

Musical Analysis

The musical setting in the chorus uses the lush sound of major seventh chords (Dmaj7 and Gmaj7) to create a smooth, flowing harmonic texture. The major seventh chords offer a depth of sound that complements the more straightforward major chords (A Major). The interplay between these chords enhances the chorus’s melodic richness, allowing for a vivid emotional expression that mirrors the thematic content of sin and guilt.

The inclusion of the B Minor 7 at the end adds a slightly somber tone to the cycle, giving the progression a reflective quality and subtly shifting the mood before looping back to the beginning of the progression or moving to another section.

Overall Analysis

The chorus of Taylor Swift’s “Guilty as Sin?” showcases a rich and dynamic chord progression that reflects the song’s emotional intensity and narrative depth. This progression, with its interplay of major, major seventh, and minor chords, provides a musical canvas that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics, indicative of Swift’s sophisticated songwriting approach.

Style Analysis

In “Guilty as Sin?”, Taylor Swift explores a style that blends elements of pop with the sophisticated harmonic textures often found in jazz and soul music. This blend is particularly effective for conveying complex emotions and enhancing the narrative storytelling in her lyrics. The choice of major seventh chords imbues the chorus with a polished, refined sound that aligns with contemporary pop while offering an emotional depth that is characteristically Swiftian.

Chords in the Chorus section of Guilty as Sin? by Taylor Swift are:

Dmaj7, A, Gmaj7, Dmaj7, A, Gmaj7, A, Dmaj7, Gmaj7, A, Bm7